Gulmarg all set to witness adventure sports events on eve of International Mountain Day


Srinagar, Dec 10 (KNS): World famous Ski resort Gulmarg is all set to witness first ever Snow Cycle Slalom, Ski mountaineering races at Gulmarg starting from Friday which also marks the International Mountain Day.

The activity would be organised by Tourism Department Kashmir and Adventure Tour Operators Association of Kashmir (ATOAK) in association with J&K Mountaineering & Hiking Club JKMHC, J&K Ski Mountaineering Association (JKSMA) and J&K Mountain Biking Association (JKMBA).

Rauf Tramboo, president ATOAK said 11th December is designated as international mountain day by UNO and this year the theme is “Mountain Biodiversity.” He said that like previous years this year too we are celebrating this day with the active support of Department of Tourism Kashmir.

Pertinently Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Manoj Sinha recently said his administration is working on a strategic plan for development of the tourism sector to make the union territory the most preferred tourist destination in the country.
"The UT Government is working on a strategic plan for growth and development of tourism sector. With numerous heritage sites, world-class infrastructure and promotion of adventure sports, we can achieve the tag of India's most preferred tourist destination," Sinha said.

Ski trainers in the region say there is a huge scope for winter adventure sports, especially ice skiing, in Gulmarg. “The climate here is also perfect for carrying out myriad winter activities and games,” a local skier in the valley said,. “These activities will definitely help in boosting and promoting tourism in the region.”

A known adventurer of Srinagar, Ishaq Bhat who visits Gulmarg every year for skiing said, “Terrain of Kashmir offers amazing opportunities for numerous adventure sports, bringing hordes of tourists to this place. Numerous mountaineering adventures in Kashmir take you to astonishing elevations of over 20000 feet above sea level. From such heights, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding region. The snow-covered slopes here are perfect for skiing and, hence, a number of adventure seekers visit here.”

Recently the Ministry of Tourism’s DekhoApnaDesh Webinar series titled '12 Months of Adventure Travel' held in November focused on Adventure Tourism which has the potential to make India round the year destination also highlighted Gulmarg as one of the best destination for adventure tourism in the country.

Interestingly last year first edition of Khelo India winter games which witnessed participation of sports persons from across the country also brought adventure lovers to Gulmarg.(KNS) 

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